Mary BriggsEugene, Oregon

Biography

Mary began her educational background with clay at the University of Georgia with Ron Meyers and Andy Nasisse, after which she obtained an MFA from the University of Iowa. She is currently a studio potter in Eugene, Oregon, which lured her with its landscape and outdoor activities.

Statement

My current body of work is still investigating forms that are functional and inspired by historical folk pottery. I began drawing on my work about 15 years ago as landscapes presented themselves to me in the brush marks or drip lines of the white slip applied over the terra cotta clay. Researching landscape drawings and paintings and using them as a reference is a part of my process. I consider each drawing as a study in a Masters work that hopefully becomes a part of my visual library. The 19th century and their sensibilities around the landscape seem to be my favorite. There is a romantic element that is calming, like a country drive. Each piece of pottery is decorated individually with consideration of composition and it's relationship to the form. My work is not about politics or social commentary. It is simply meant to serve as a window into a peaceful place.